Chimpanzees are called our closest living relative because we share all but 1.4% of our DNA. The chimpanzees' closest relation is us; not gorillas or orangutans.

Like humans, chimpanzees have emotions similar to those we call joy, anger, grief, sorrow, pleasure, boredom, and depression. They also comfort and reassure one another by kissing and embracing.

The world of a newborn chimpanzee does not reach much beyond its mother's chest. There, the tiny baby finds all it needs: food, warmth, protection.

Like humans, a large part of a chimpanzee's life is spent growing up. Not until around 13 years of age are they considered to be young adults. A baby chimpanzee has a lot to learn such as what food to eat and where are they found.

 

A chimpanzee's diet may consists of almost 200 different plant species and more than 20 types of insects. One day's menu can be up to 13 different items. One study found that a chimpanzee's annual diet averages 68% fruit, 28% leaves and shoots, and 4% insects and small prey.

Grooming has a twofold purpose (and is probably pleasurable besides). By running their fingers through each others' hair, chimpanzees remove dirt, dead skin, and parasites.

Grooming is also the single most important social activity and takes up a lot of each day's rest periods. Through these actions chimpanzees nourish friendships, comfort each other, and patch up disagreements.